[Digitalis]

The 5D is very attractive due to the 17/4 tilt lens they've got

Of all the TS-E lenses Canon has produced that one is the worst, it has noticable distortion and some pretty bad astigmatism when shift/tilt is used. I may have trialled a dud copy. but come on it's supposed to be an L lens, aren't they supposed to be actually usable at the extremes?

the 24mm is much more practical focal length on FF, not to mention it's resolution figures are very impressive.

[pcarfan]

the 24mm is much more practical focal length on FF, not to mention it's resolution figures are very impressive.

Is this true for edge perfromance at full tilt/shift ?....I noticed the 17 to have poor performance in this regard according to photozone.

[rparmar]

British Journal of Photography had a good review of the two new Canon tilt/shift lenses when they came out a year back. I have no idea how to find these on their website, or if it's even possible.

[Big G]

Keep in mind that the 17mm can't use filters where as the 24 mm can.

[pcarfan]

Are there two different versions of the Canon TS-E 24mm ($2k and $1k)? I assume version II is much much better?

[pingflood]

Are there two different versions of the Canon TS-E 24mm ($2k and $1k)? I assume version II is much much better?

Yup.

The people I've talked to who own and use the TS lenses claim the 17 is the one to go for, and to use the 1.4x TC if you need the 24mm angle of view. Just another data point.

[rparmar]

Are there two different versions of the Canon TS-E 24mm ($2k and $1k)? I assume version II is much much better?

The shots I saw in BJP looked like night and day. In fact I am not sure how any pro could have been happy with the quality from the original lens.

[Blue]

"Get a Pentax 67 with Epson V700 scanner."

if I was starting afresh that is exactly what I would do. Though I would go for the 67II, 55mm f/4 75mm f/2.8 [AL] 150mm f/2.8 300mm f/4 those would be my lens selection of choice. and one day when you can afford a 645D you could get a 67>645 adapter and you can still enjoy your 67 lenses.

This was going to be my suggestion along with a 5x7 or 8x10 view camera.

[Digitalis]

This was going to be my suggestion along with a 5x7 or 8x10 view camera.

Buying an 8X10 these days isn't a cheap affair, I have been having film supply problems. As a matter of fact I'm doing what will probably be my last major work on 8X10 format film. A series called "ignis solus".

5X7 is a odd format, a real nuisance to find film for it. Personally I would go for 4X5 because film is reasonably easy to come by, and it is far more "mainstream" than 8X10.

[Blue]

Buying an 8X10 these days isn't a cheap affair, I have been having film supply problems. As a matter of fact I'm doing what will probably be my last major work on 8X10 format film. A series called "ignis solus".

5X7 is a odd format, a real nuisance to find film for it. Personally I would go for 4X5 because film is reasonably easy to come by, and it is far more "mainstream" than 8X10.

I actually meant 4x5. I don't know why I typed 5x7. I would have to order either film so its about an equal proposition as far a difficulty obtaining it but the 8x10 would be ~ $10 sheet (~ $7 for Portra). However, the largest format I currently shoot is 6x7 mf.

[Digitalis]

However, the largest format I currently shoot is 6x7 mf.

well I suggest you stick to what is familiar, though there really isn't any stopping you from jumping in the deep end by getting a 4X5, some sheet film holders and a 150mm f/5.6 lens some T-max 100 and an exposure meter (or digital SLR) sturdy tripod and you should be rearing to go.

If you are looking for something small and compact, a Linhof Master Technika* should fit the bill - the Technika is very small and compact for a 4X5 field system.

*expensive cameras when bought new, but they are available on the second hand market reasonably cheaply. Their construction is top notch,so even if you do buy one second hand it will most likely outlast digital.

[stevebrot]

I actually meant 4x5. I don't know why I typed 5x7. I would have to order either film so its about an equal proposition as far a difficulty obtaining it but the 8x10 would be ~ $10 sheet (~ $7 for Portra). However, the largest format I currently shoot is 6x7 mf.

I guess I am extremely lucky! I have three locations locally where I can buy 4x5 film. Sometimes I think Portland must be some sort of last refuge for film photographers.


Steve

[Vertex Ninja]

You've probably already decided, but I'll put in my $.02. If you want to print big( 20"x30"+), don't intend to shoot high volumes, or >ISO 400, then film offers great value. A 4x5 camera could be used to shoot 4x5, 6x12, 6x9, 6x7 etc. and give you movements with every lens. You could then pick up a V700, good for ~2500PPI, and get drum scans for anything in which you needed more. You can go here to see full imacon scans of medium and large format. Almost all of those scans are <2500PPI except for the smaller formats. Drum scans would likely offer more resolution, better shadow detail, and less noise. I'd also consider the super sharp Mamiya 7(my next camera). It would require quite a bit more than 2500PPI to get everything off it's film, probably 2x that. I'm lusting for the 7's 43 or 50.

[Clicker]

20x30? Canon G11/12, you'll need to add the filter adapter

[stevebrot]

A 4x5 camera could be used to shoot 4x5, 6x12, 6x9, 6x7 etc...

BTW, did you ever get out and do some shooting with your Chamonix yet?


Steve